Farmers and Exporters Highlight Persistent Challenges

By Jean Bosco Rutayisire.

Some farmers and exporters in Rwanda, primarily dealing with agricultural and livestock products, have highlighted ongoing challenges they face, including difficulties obtaining visas for certain African countries and a lack of agricultural expertise.

They are calling for assistance to overcome these obstacles in order to increase their productivity.

These issues were discussed during a two-day workshop held in Nyagatare District on May 28 and 29, 2024, organized by USAID through its Kungahara Wagure Amasoko project. The workshop aimed to explore ways to boost exports through the African market.

Gisa Leonard, a farmer who also exports his products, mentioned that common issues include unfair practices by trading partners and inadequate infrastructure in various countries, as well as difficulties in obtaining visas for other countries.

“The visa issue, for example, in Rwanda, they have opened up so that as an African needing to come here, you don’t require a visa. But when you go to other countries like South Africa, they have more complicated entry requirements,” he said.

Alex Mugabo, another farmer, stated that farmers face a lack of knowledge in processing export products and requested that the government provide more training for farmers in handling crops like chili peppers, green beans, vegetables, and other exportable produce.

William Mwesigwa pointed out the problem of customs officials at the airport not working 24/7, which sometimes results in delays and spoilage of their products.

Fred Murigande, an official from the Ministry of Trade and Industry’s Department of Trade and Investment, emphasized the importance of trust in modern trade but also noted the necessity of having proof that the trader has provided goods of a certain value.

Ferdinand Mudatenguha, an official from the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources in the Value Chain Department, mentioned that productivity is improving significantly thanks to RAB’s efforts in providing farmers with quality seeds and training them on how to maintain their crops.

Martin Gasasira, an export analyst at RDB, stated that progress has been made with the establishment of a One-Stop Center that brings together various ministries to facilitate obtaining necessary documents. He assured that efforts are being made to address remaining gaps to provide better services.

Currently, the USAID Kungahara Wagure Amasoko project has a plan to reward exporters as an incentive to increase the volume of their exports.

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